By David Imaa
TORORO
The Tororo High Court has this week made a significant ruling in the ongoing land dispute between Royal City Ministries Kampala and community members of Abur and Kayoro villages.
Royal City Ministries acquired a 5-year lease on the land in December last year and started renovations, which raised concerns among community members, particularly the ikarwok Isabya clan, who claim to have been using the land for generations.
The assistant registrar of the court, Her worship Hellen Edimu made ruling on an interim application, stated that each party will cover its costs, and the status quo will be maintained until the ruling on main Suit.
A temporary injunction was also issued over charges of trespass and interfering with renovations of Block 5, Aburi Kasipodo.
The disputed land, located in Block 5, Plot 1913, Abur and Kasipodo Area, measures 47.5612 hectares.
Royal City Ministries registered the land on March 19, 2024, and later mortgaged it to Uganda Development Bank Limited on October 22, 2024.
This case highlights the complexities of land disputes in Uganda, where community members often clash with developers and investors over land rights and usage.
The Tororo High Court’s decision has sparked concerns about the rights of indigenous communities and the need for transparent and fair land dealings. The ruling on the main application will be delivered on February 14, 2025 at 10am.
